Reviewed by Dr. Fiona Lee
Just like humans, pets entering their senior years may need more frequent or complex care than before. That's why securing comprehensive pet insurance to help you protect your beloved cats, dogs and other animals from illness and accidents is even more important as your pet enters their twilight years.
But when is it too late to get pet insurance? And is it worth having pet insurance for older animals? Here's what you need to know.
Can You Get Pet Insurance for Older Pets?
It may be harder to find pet insurance for senior pets because age limitations in pet insurance policies are there for various reasons. Providers typically take into account actuarial data, which gives them insights into trends and statistics. According to this data, senior pets tend to have a higher probability of experiencing health issues, so claims are more common. For example, about half of dogs and a third of cats over 10 years of age die from cancer.1
However, eligibility for pet insurance for senior pets isn't solely determined by age. Several other factors come into play, including the following:
Breed and size
Certain breeds and larger-sized pets may have different risk profiles and healthcare needs, influencing eligibility and premiums. For example, owners of Boxers file more insurance claims for cancer diagnoses than any other breed, and toy and small dog breeds have the highest risk of developing pancreatitis and diabetes.2
Health history
The overall health history of your pet, including any pre-existing conditions, plays a significant role. Most insurers have restrictions based on the pet's existing health conditions. While Pets Best insurance plans don't cover pre-existing conditions, they can still cover hundreds of other conditions, and with our customized deductibles, policy costs can be adjusted to help fit your budget.
Coverage options
The specific coverage options selected—such as accident-only coverage, illness coverage or comprehensive plans—can affect eligibility and premiums.
When Is a Pet Considered "Senior"?
Although your pet might always be your baby, the thresholds to be considered a senior pet vary and are influenced by factors such as breed and size. Very large breeds like Great Danes may be considered senior at just 6 years of age, while smaller dogs might not reach this milestone until they're 10 years old.3
Cats are generally considered seniors once they're over 10 years of age.4 However, there is no official cutoff age for seniority, so carefully check the policies to make sure your older pet is covered.
At Pets Best, we have no age limits on insuring older dogs and cats. Whether your furry friend is a playful pup or a senior who has seen a thing or two, we offer coverage for various accidents, illnesses, and hereditary and congenital conditions, along with optional routine care. While your pet's age won't limit their eligibility for insurance coverage, it does influence plan premiums.
Is Pet Insurance for Seniors Different Than for Younger Pets?
Pet insurance plans for seniors may differ from those intended for younger animals, so you may be wondering if pet insurance premiums are more expensive for older pets. The answer is usually yes, as it's likely that older pets will need to see the veterinarian or access other care more often than puppies and kittens. But while premiums might be higher for older pets due to potential health risks, this isn't always the case. Each provider evaluates various factors, including age, breed, location and the chosen plan and deductible, to determine costs.
Is It Too Late To Get Pet Insurance?
Getting pet insurance for older pets may pose challenges, but it's usually not too late. Insurers assess various factors when considering eligibility for senior pets, including the pet's health history, breed and age. To improve the chances of qualifying for insurance with older pets, keep detailed pet health records and ensure regular veterinary checkups.
Is It Worth Having Pet Insurance for an Older Pet?
When deciding if pet insurance is worth it for your older pet, consider the following factors:
Life expectancy
Check how long your animal type or breed typically lives. As your pet ages, insurance premiums tend to increase.
Quality of life
Think about the treatments and steps you'd be willing to pursue if your pet were to face a serious condition like cancer. Keep in mind the potential impact of any treatment on their well-being.
Coverage
Ensure the policy details suit your needs, avoiding unnecessary coverage like routine care or coverage for spaying/neutering that you won't need for senior pets.
Pets Best Has Your Furry Friend's Back
Life is unpredictable—and although your pet is getting older, they may still have many happy years ahead. Protecting your pet from accidents and illnesses is an essential part of the responsibility that comes with sharing your home, life and heart with an animal.
Pets Best offers customizable coverage to meet the needs of senior pet owners, along with a free 24/7 Pet Helpline for policyholders. Call to speak with a veterinary expert about any concerns you may have about your senior pet.
Securing pet insurance for senior cats and dogs is not only possible, but also crucial for helping to provide them with the best possible care as they continue to be a loving companion well into their golden years.
Sources/Citations
1. “Caring for senior cats and dogs," American Veterinary Medical Association, https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/senior-pets, accessed February 20, 2024.
2. “Dog Breeds With The Highest Chances Of Health Problems," Jason Metz (10/2023), Forbes,https://www.forbes.com/advisor/pet-insurance/dog-breeds-highest-risk-health-problems/, accessed February 20, 2024.
3. “Aging in Dogs: Physical and Mental Signs Your Dog Is Getting Older," Jan Reisen (10/2023), American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/aging-in-dogs-physical-mental-signs/, accessed February 20, 2024.
4. “2021 AAHA/AAFP Feline Life Stage Guidelines," American Animal Hospital Association, https://www.aaha.org/aaha-guidelines/life-stage-feline-2021/feline-life-stage-home/, accessed March 4, 2024.